ISLAMABAD, October 8 The Wafaqi Mohtasib of Pakistan, Mr. Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi, has emphasized that adherence to the rule of law remains the cornerstone of good governance, fair play, and inclusivity. He was addressing the International Conference on Strengthening the Rule of Law through Ombudsman Institutions, held as part of the Asian Regional Meeting 2025 of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI).
The event, hosted by Ms. Ayesha Hamid, the Provincial Ombudsman Punjab and Second Vice President of the IOI, brought together a distinguished array of participants from across Asia, including representatives from Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Indonesia, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Macao-China, the Philippines, Timor-Leste, and the heads of national ombudsman institutions of Pakistan.
In his address, Mr. Qureshi highlighted that the ombudsman institutions serve as key enablers of accountability, working to make state agencies more vibrant, efficient, and responsive to the needs of citizens. He underlined that fair play, justice, and equality form the moral and institutional fabric of an effective ombuds system.
“The Wafaqi Mohtasib’s institution in Pakistan embodies the essential features recommended by the United Nations General Assembly resolutions,” said Mr. Qureshi. “Its autonomy, independence, is fully aligned with international standards for the promotion of human rights, good governance, and the rule of law.”
The Federal Ombudsman stated that proactive initiatives such as Suo Moto actions on cases of mismanagement have significantly improved the performance of government agencies. He added that Khuli Katcheries in remote areas and inspection visits to departments with persistent complaints have further enhanced efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public service delivery.
Mr. Qureshi reiterated that ombudsman institutions play a vital role in addressing maladministration, which in turn strengthens discipline, efficiency, and citizen trust in state institutions.
The conference also featured addresses from Provincial Ombudsman Punjab Ms. Ayesha Hamid, Federal Insurance Ombudsman, Federal Tax Ombudsman, and the Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace, along with other international speakers.
The Asian Regional Meeting of the IOI, a global body representing over 200 ombudsman and mediator institutions, continues to serve as a vital platform for exchange of best practices, regional cooperation, and promotion of institutional integrity among its member states.
